Overview
Azerbaijan has the fastest growing GDP in the world. Unfortunately, the growth of the economy has meant more hardship for the poor who lack the skills to contribute and gain from the growing market economy. Inflation increases as the economy booms, leaving the unemployed in worse condition than before. Disadvantaged youth, along with many internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees, need to be taught skills that will enable them to tap into their emerging economy. World Hope International (WHI) is engaging these neglected populations with English and computer education. WHIAzerbaijan (WHI-A) also conducts special projects including distributing Christmas Gift Paks and providing special medical attention.

English Center
The English Center in Baku taught over 30 English classes ranging from beginner to advanced English. Over half the students were refugees, IDPs, or underprivileged. Many of them have used the English skills they learned at WHI-A to gain employment and provide themselves with more economic stability both now and in the future.

Computer Center
WHI-A continued its routine courses such as Internet use, Microsoft Excel and Windows at the Computer Center in Baku. It also offered a few specialty seminars on anti-virus and PowerPoint. The overall flow of students continues to be good, demonstrating the need for continued computer training.

Medical
At the beginning of the year, WHI-A, in cooperation with two other organizations, sponsored and oversaw eye surgery for two girls. Both of the girls’ eyesight was successfully corrected.

Gift Paks
WHI-A distributed 1,853 WHI Christmas Gifts Paks to children in nine boarding schools, orphanages, and IDP communities in 2007. Gift Paks contain hygiene items such as soap and toothbrush, school supplies, and small toys. Many of the children are extremely poor or have been abandoned by their families. Few of them have opportunities to receive much love and attention. After the distributions, WHI staff and volunteers organized games, outdoor activities and puppet shows for the children.